Elder abandonment:
a silent crisis in Mexico
Elder abandonment: a silent crisis in Mexico
Culturally, aging is one of the topics Mexicans tend to avoid. As a result, there is often no planning for one’s own old age or that of one’s parents. Unfortunately, this can lead to serious consequences such as elder abandonment, delayed decisions, and undignified living conditions.
According to figures from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (INEGI), older adults made up 14.7% of Mexico’s population in 2023. By 2030, this number could rise to 20%, and by 2050, to 27.7%. This trend necessitates immediate action to prevent a future marked by the abandonment of older adults and precarious living conditions.
The country is aging without preparation, without a clear strategy or regulations, and sometimes with practices that border on elder abuse. This is a silent crisis with deep human consequences.
3 major failures that undermine quality of life in old age
At Dämadi SweetHomes, we have identified three major structural failures in the country:
- – Lack of regulations for senior care homes
- – Proliferation of improvised spaces, untrained staff, and no established protocols
- – Emotional and practical detachment of families
One of the main problems is that many senior homes promise special care and attention, but not all of them have proper standards or qualified staff. There is often no medical follow-up, no therapists, and in some cases, no respect. Improvising care can also be considered institutional violence.
Dämadi: Specialists in Elder Care
In response to this situation, at Dämadi SweetHomes we offer a different alternative. Our senior care homes are small houses with warm environments, highly trained staff, and a human-centered approach. This allows us to promote overall well-being.
We don’t work with patients. We work with people. Each of our residents has a name, a life story, and emotions that deserve to be respected. Our greatest differentiator is the bond we create.
At Dämadi, we also promote active prevention. Families often wait for an accident or crisis to make decisions. In reality, moving into a senior home early does not mean losing autonomy, it means extending independence with professional support.
What is the difference between retirement homes and asylums?
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. An asylum is a traditional model, often focused on basic assistance, with a passive approach. They generally operate with limited resources, lack clear regulations, and may lead to the abandonment of older adults.
In contrast, retirement homes and senior care houses follow a professional model centered on well-being. They promote physical, emotional, and social engagement. They follow protocols, have structured operations, and employ specialized staff. They are often perceived as warm, alternative homes.
Many asylums were designed to house, not to care for. Professional retirement homes aim to improve quality of life, not just sustain it.
Elder care Is a shared responsibility
One of Dämadi’s missions is to actively involve families in the care of their loved ones. It’s not about leaving someone in a facility and disappearing. it’s about providing care together. Combined with individualized plans for each resident, this approach leads to better physical, emotional, and social outcomes.
Toward a national care agenda
As part of our commitment to highlight the need for a national elder care agenda, we have launched a campaign that includes the following:
- – Mandatory minimum standards in senior care homes
- – Public funding for professional care models
- – Ongoing staff supervision and training
- – Recognition of elder care as a human right, not a luxury
“Old age should not be lived in the shadows. It should be lived with presence, with dignity, with community. It’s not just about lasting, it’s about living,” says Alejandra Solórzano, CEO of Dämadi Foundation.
